US11133629B2 - Busway systems and related assemblies and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A busway assembly includes first and second busway sections and a joint assembly connecting the first and second sections. Each busway section includes a housing including first and second opposing side portions. Each busway section includes a first insulator held in the first side portion and a second insulator held in the second side portion. The first and second insulators each hold one or more bus bar conductors. The joint assembly includes first and second connected joint housings and plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second housings. A first exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the first housing and is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section. A second exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the second housing and is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the second busway section.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/160,448, filed Oct. 15, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/443,112, filed Feb. 27, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,103,506, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/216,539, filed on Jul. 21, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,711,922, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/688,307, filed on Apr. 16, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,407,079, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Busway systems typically include several elongated busway sections with busway joints between adjacent busway sections. The busway joint serves to electrically and mechanically connect the adjacent busway sections. Continuous plug-in busway systems allow for plug-in devices (e.g., outlet boxes) to be installed anywhere or substantially anywhere along the length of the busway sections.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway assembly. The busway assembly includes first and second busway sections and a joint assembly between and connecting the first and second busway sections. Each busway section includes a housing. The housing has a length and includes first and second opposing side portions. Each busway section includes a first insulator held in the first side portion of the housing and a second insulator held in the second side portion of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators hold one or more bus bar conductors. The joint assembly includes first and second connected joint housings and plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second joint housings. A first exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the first joint housing and is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section. A second exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the second joint housing and is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the second busway section.

In some embodiments, the first and second joint housings each include a base and a plurality of elongated conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each conductor holding member defining a channel. The first and second joint housings are connected at their respective bases with the channels of the first joint housing aligned with the channels of the second joint housing and with each joint conductor held in a respective pair of aligned channels of the first and second joint housings.

Each conductor holding member may include a slot at a distal end portion thereof, with the exposed portions of the joint conductor extending through the slots. The bus bar conductors may be held in spaced apart channels defined in the first and second busway section insulators with an opening extending along each channel. The exposed portions of the joint conductors may be received in the openings to electrically connect with the bus bar conductors.

In some embodiments, the first and second joint housings each include a plurality of block members extending away from the base, with one each positioned adjacent at least some of the conductor holding members. A respective bus bar conductor may have a length that is shorter than a length of the channel in which the bus bar conductor is held such that a gap is defined in the channel between an end of the bus bar conductor and an end of the channel. A respective block member of the first joint housing may be received in the gap of one of the channels of the first busway section insulators such that an end of the block member is adjacent and/or abuts an end of the bus bar conductor held in the channel. A respective block member of the second joint housing may be received in the gap of one of the channels of the second busway section insulators such that an end of the block member is adjacent and/or abuts an end of the bus bar conductor held in the channel. A respective block member may be adjacent and extend along a portion of one of the joint conductors.

The busway assembly may further include a joint cover over the joint assembly, with the joint cover being slidable axially along the first and second busway section housings. The busway section housings may include channels at the first and second side portions thereof, and the joint cover may include rail members that are slidably received in the channels.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a method including providing a first busway section and a joint assembly. The first busway section includes a busway section housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. A first insulator is held in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, and with the first insulator holding one or more bus bar conductors. A second insulator is held in the second side portion of the housing, with the second insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, and with the second insulator holding one or more bus bar conductors. The joint assembly includes first and second connected joint housings and a plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second joint housings. Each joint conductor has a first exposed portion extending from the first joint housing and a second exposed portion extending from the second joint housing. The method includes joining the first busway section and the joint assembly such that the first exposed portion of each joint conductor is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section.

In some embodiments, each of the first and second joint housings includes a base and a plurality of elongated conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each joint conductor held in aligned conductor holding members of the first and second housings and having the first exposed portion at a distal end of the conductor holding member of the first housing and the second exposed portion at a distal end portion of the conductor holding member of the second housing. The bus bar conductors may be held in spaced apart channels defined in the first and second busway section insulators with an opening extending along each channel. Joining the first busway section and the joint assembly may include receiving the first exposed portions of the joint conductors in the openings of the first busway section insulators to electrically connect with the first busway section bus bar conductors.

The first and second joint housings may each include a plurality of block members extending away from the base, with one each positioned adjacent at least some of the conductor holding members. Joining the first busway section and the joint assembly may include slidingly receiving the block members of the first joint housing in the channels of the first busway section insulators such that an end of a respective block member is adjacent and/or abuts an end of one of the conductors held in one of the channels.

In some embodiments, the method includes providing a second busway section. The second busway section includes a busway section housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. A first insulator is held in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, and with the first insulator holding one or more bus bar conductors. A second insulator is held in the second side portion of the housing, with the second insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, and with the second insulator holding one or more bus bar conductors. The method includes joining the second busway section and the joint assembly such that the second exposed portion of each joint conductor is electrically connected with one of the bus bar conductors of the second busway section.

Joining the second busway section and the joint assembly may include receiving the second exposed portions of the joint conductors in the openings of the second busway section insulators to electrically connect with the bus bar conductors of the second busway section. Joining the second busway section and the joint assembly may include slidingly receiving the block members of the second joint housing in the channels of the second busway section insulators such that an end of a respective block member is adjacent and/or abuts an end of one of the conductors held in one of the channels.

In some embodiments, the method includes, before joining the second busway section and the joint assembly, slidably receiving a joint cover on the first busway section housing. In some embodiments, the method includes, after joining the second busway section and the joint assembly, sliding and tightening the joint cover over the joint assembly.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway section. The busway section includes a housing having a length and including first and second opposing side portions. The busway section includes a first insulator configured to be slidingly received in the first side portion of the housing and a second insulator configured to be slidingly received in the second side portion of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators includes a plurality of spaced apart channels extending lengthwise in the insulator, with each channel configured to receive a bus bar conductor. The housing further includes a plurality of insulator alignment and engagement features configured to align and guide the first and second insulators as they are slidingly received in the housing and to hold the first and second insulators in place after they are slidingly received in the housing.

In some embodiments, the insulator alignment and engagement features include a first upper standoff track extending downwardly and inwardly from the first side portion of the housing and a first lower standoff track extending upwardly and inwardly from the first side portion of the housing. The first upper standoff track is configured to engage an upper portion of the first insulator, and the first lower standoff track is configured to engage a lower portion of first insulator. The insulator alignment and engagement features include a second upper standoff track extending downwardly and inwardly from the second side portion of the housing and a second lower standoff track extending upwardly and inwardly from the second side portion of the housing. The second upper standoff track is configured to engage an upper portion of the second insulator, and the second lower standoff track is configured to engage a lower portion of second insulator.

In some embodiments, the insulator alignment and engagement features include first inner wall member extending inwardly at the first side portion of the housing and a second inner wall member extending inwardly at the second side portion of the housing. The first inner wall member is positioned to be adjacent to and/or abut a central portion of the first insulator. The second inner wall member is positioned to be adjacent to and/or abut a central portion of the second insulator. One or more gaps may be defined between the first inner wall member and the first insulator and/or one or more gaps may be defined between the second inner wall member and the second insulator.

The insulator alignment and engagement features may include first and second upper leg members. The first upper leg member may extend upwardly from the first inner wall member and may be configured to be received in a groove in an upper portion of the first insulator. The second upper leg member may extend upwardly from the second inner wall member and may be configured to be received in a groove in an upper portion of the second insulator.

The insulator alignment and engagement features may include first and second lower leg members. The first lower leg member may extend downwardly from the first inner wall member and may be configured to be received in a groove in a lower portion of the first insulator. The second lower leg member may extend downwardly from the second inner wall member and may be configured to be received in a groove in a lower portion of the second insulator.

The insulator alignment and engagement features may include a first upper wall portion above and offset from the first inner wall member and a second upper wall portion above and offset from the second inner wall member. An upper ledge of the first insulator may be received above the first inner wall member and adjacent the first upper wall portion. An upper ledge of the second insulator may be received above the second inner wall member and adjacent the second upper wall portion.

The insulator alignment and engagement features may include a first lower wall portion below and offset from the first inner wall member and a second lower wall portion below and offset from the second inner wall member. A lower ledge of the first insulator may be received below the first inner wall member and adjacent the first lower wall portion. A lower ledge of the second insulator may be received below the second inner wall member and adjacent the second lower wall portion.

In some embodiments, each of the first and second side portions of the housing includes a joint cover engagement feature configured to slidably engage a joint cover. The joint cover engagement feature may include a first channel at the first side portion of the housing and a second channel at the second side portion of the housing. The first and second channels may be configured to slidingly receive a joint cover.

In some embodiments, the housing further includes a first lower ledge extending inwardly from a lower portion of the first side portion of the housing and a second lower ledge extending inwardly from a lower portion of the second side portion of the housing. The insulator alignment and engagement features may include a first lower lip that extends upwardly from a distal edge of the first lower ledge and a second lower lip that extends upwardly from a distal edge of the second lower ledge. The first lower lip may be configured to be received in a slot in a lower portion of the first insulator and the second lower lip may be configured to be received in a slot in a lower portion of the second insulator.

The housing may include a first lower flange extending downwardly from the first lower ledge and a second lower flange extending downwardly from the second lower ledge. The busway section may include first and second lip seal members formed of an electrically insulative material. The first lip seal member may be configured to be received around the first lower flange and the second lip seal member may be configured to be received around the second lower flange.

In some embodiments, one of the first and second insulators comprises an enlarged channel configured to receive an enlarged neutral conductor.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a joint assembly for use with a busway system. The joint assembly includes first and second insulator housings and a plurality of conductors held in aligned channels of the first and second insulator housings. The first and second insulator housings each include a base and a plurality of elongated conductor holding members extending away from the base. The first and second housings are coupled to one another at their respective bases with the channels of the first insulator housing aligned with the channels of the second insulator housing. The joint assembly includes at least one securing feature associated with first insulator housing and/or the second insulator housing such that the first and second insulators housings are secured to one another with one or more interference fits.

In some embodiments, the securing feature includes the channels that are sized and configured such that the conductors are held therein with an interference fit. The conductors and the channels may be generally T-shaped.

The securing feature may include a flange at the base of one of the first and second insulator housings that is sized and configured to receive the base of the other one of the first and second housings. The securing feature may include at least one receptacle on the base of one of the first and second insulator housings that is sized and configured to receive at least one plug member on the base of the other one of the first and second housings.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a joint assembly. The joint assembly includes a first insulator housing including a base and a plurality conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each conductor holding member defining a channel and including an open slot at an end portion thereof. The joint assembly includes a second insulator housing including a base and a plurality conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each conductor holding member defining a channel and including an open slot at an end portion thereof. The joint assembly includes a plurality of conductors. The channels of the first and second housings are sized and configured to receive and hold the conductors. The first and second housings are configured to couple at their respective bases such that a respective conductor is substantially enclosed in aligned conductor holding members of the first and second housings and portions of the conductor are exposed through the slots of the aligned conductor holding members.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway assembly kit including a busway section and a joint assembly. The busway section comprises a housing having a length and including first and second opposing side portions. The busway section includes a first insulator in the first side portion of the housing and a second insulator in the second side portion of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing. Each of the first and second insulators includes a plurality of channels extending lengthwise along the insulator, with the insulator defining a plurality of lengthwise openings, one opening for each channel. The joint assembly includes first and second insulator housings and a plurality of conductors held in aligned channels of the first and second housings. The first and second housings each include a base and a plurality of conductor holding members extending outwardly from the base. The conductor holding members each define a channel. The first and second insulator housings are coupled at their respective bases such that the channels of the first insulator housing are aligned with the channels of the second insulator housing. Each conductor includes a first exposed portion that extends through a slot in the first insulator housing and a second exposed portion that extends through a slot in the second insulator housing. The joint assembly is configured to be coupled to the busway section with either the first exposed portions or the second exposed portions of the conductors received in at least some of the openings of the first and second insulators. The slots may be tapered such that the conductor holding members narrow as they extend away from the base of the first and second insulator housings.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway assembly. The assembly includes first and second busway sections. Each busway section includes a busway section housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. Each busway section includes a first insulator held in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the first insulator holding one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors, and with each bus bar conductor including an upper portion and an opposite lower portion. Each busway section includes a second insulator held in the second side portion of the housing, with the second insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the second insulator holding one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors, and with each bus bar conductor including an upper portion and an opposite lower portion. The assembly includes a joint assembly between and connecting the first and second busway sections. The joint assembly includes: first and second connected joint housings; and a plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second joint housings. A first exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the first joint housing and is received between and contacts the upper and lower portions of one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section to be electrically connected therewith. A second exposed portion of each joint conductor extends out of the second joint housing and is received between and contacts the upper and lower portions of one of the bus bar conductors of the second busway section to be electrically connected therewith.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a method. The method includes providing a first busway section. The first busway section includes a busway section housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. The first busway section includes a first insulator held in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the first insulator holding one or more bus bar conductors, and with each bus bar conductor including an upper portion and an opposite lower portion. The first busway section includes first and second connected joint housings. The first busway section includes a plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second joint housings, with each joint conductor having a first exposed portion extending from the first joint housing and a second exposed portion extending from the second joint housing. The method includes joining the first busway section and the joint assembly such that the first exposed portion of each joint conductor is slidingly received between the upper and lower portions of one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section to be electrically connected therewith.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway section. The busway section includes a housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. The busway section includes a first insulator configured to be slidingly received in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the first insulator comprising a plurality of spaced apart channels extending lengthwise in the first insulator, and with each channel defined by an outer wall of the first insulator and first and second spaced apart projections of the first insulator that further define an opening extending along the channel. The busway section includes one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors held in at least some of the plurality of channels of the first insulator, with each bus bar conductor including an outer section adjacent the outer wall of the first insulator and first and second spaced apart sections extending away from the outer section with the first section adjacent the first projection of the first insulator and the second section adjacent the second projection of the first insulator. The busway section includes a second insulator configured to be slidingly received in the second side portion of the housing, with the second insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the second insulator including a plurality of spaced apart channels extending lengthwise in the insulator, and with each channel defined by an outer wall of the second insulator and first and second spaced apart projections of the second insulator that further define an opening extending along the channel. The busway section includes one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors held in at least some of the plurality of channels of the second insulator, with each bus bar conductor including an outer section adjacent the outer wall of the second insulator and first and second spaced apart sections extending away from the outer section with the first section adjacent the first projection of the second insulator and the second section adjacent the second projection of the second insulator.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a joint assembly. The joint assembly includes a first insulator housing including a base and a plurality of conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each conductor holding member defining a channel and including an open slot at an end portion thereof. The joint assembly includes a second insulator housing including a base and a plurality of conductor holding members extending away from the base, with each conductor holding member defining a channel and including an open slot at an end portion thereof. The joint assembly includes a plurality of L-shaped conductors. The channels of the first and second housings are sized and configured to receive and hold the conductors. The first and second housings are configured to couple at their respective bases such that a respective conductor is substantially enclosed in aligned conductor holding members of the first and second housings and portions of the conductor are exposed through the slots of the aligned conductor holding members.

Some other embodiments of the invention are directed to a busway assembly. The busway assembly includes a first busway section. The first busway section includes a busway section housing having a length, with the housing including first and second opposing side portions. The first busway section includes a first insulator held in the first side portion of the housing, with the first insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the first insulator holding one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors, and with each bus bar conductor comprising an upper portion and an opposite lower portion. The first busway section includes a second insulator held in the first side portion of the housing, with the second insulator having a length that is substantially the same as the length of the housing, with the second insulator holding one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bar conductors, and with each bus bar conductor comprising an upper portion and an opposite lower portion. The busway assembly includes a joint assembly including: first and second connected joint housings; and a plurality of joint conductors held in the first and second joint housings, with a first exposed portion of each joint conductor extending out of the first joint housing. The first busway section and the joint assembly are configured to couple by slidingly receiving each first exposed portion of the plurality of joint conductors between the upper and lower portions of one of the bus bar conductors of the first busway section to be electrically connected therewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a busway system according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a busway section according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a housing of the busway section of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the housing of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an insulator of the busway section of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is an end view of the insulator of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a housing holding two insulators of the busway section of FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is an end view of the housing holding the two insulators of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is an end view of the busway section of FIG. 2.

FIG. 10 is an end view of the busway section of FIG. 2 with an enlarged neutral bus bar.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a joint assembly according to some embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a partially assembled perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a partially assembled opposite perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is an assembled perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 is a partially assembled perspective view of the busway system of FIG. 1 including first and second assembled busway sections, an assembled joint assembly and a joint cover.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the joint assembly connected with the first busway section of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the joint cover engaged with the first busway section of FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is an assembled perspective view of the busway system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 19 is an assembled partial cutaway perspective view of the busway system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 is an end view of a busway section housing holding two insulators according to some other embodiments.

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a busway system according to some embodiments.

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a busway section according to some embodiments.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a housing of the busway section of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is an end view of the housing of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an insulator of the busway section of FIG. 22.

FIG. 26 is an end view of the insulator of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a housing holding two insulators of the busway section of FIG. 22.

FIG. 28 is an end view of the housing holding the two insulators of FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a bus bar conductor of the busway section of FIG. 22.

FIG. 30 is an end view of the conductor of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is an end view of the busway section of FIG. 22 in an assembled state.

FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of a joint assembly according to some embodiments.

FIG. 33 is a partially assembled perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is a partially assembled opposite perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 32.

FIG. 35 is an assembled perspective view of the joint assembly of FIG. 32.

FIG. 36 is a partially assembled perspective view of the busway system of FIG. 21 including a first busway section and an assembled joint assembly.

FIG. 37 is an assembled perspective view of the busway system of FIG. 21.

FIG. 38 is a sectional view of the busway system taken along the line A-A of FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 is a sectional view of the busway system taken along the line B-B of FIG. 38.

FIG. 40 is a sectional view of the busway system taken along the line C-C of FIG. 38.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown. In the drawings, the relative sizes of regions or features may be exaggerated for clarity. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another element, it can be directly coupled or connected to the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly coupled” or “directly connected” to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As used herein the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

In addition, spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “includes,” “comprising,” and/or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

It is noted that any one or more aspects or features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated in a different embodiment although not specifically described relative thereto. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination. Applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to be able to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. These and other objects and/or aspects of the present invention are explained in detail in the specification set forth below.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

A busway or bus duct system assembly 10 is illustrated in FIG. 1. The busway assembly 10 includes first and second busway or bus duct sections 12, 14. A joint assembly 16 is disposed between the first and second busway sections 12, 14. The busway assembly 10 typically forms a portion of a larger busway system or busway run, and one or more additional busway sections, joint assemblies and/or other components may be included in the larger busway system.

The busway section 12 is illustrated in FIG. 2. The busway section 14 has substantially the same structure as the busway section 12; accordingly, in the interest of brevity, only the busway section 12 will be described in detail below.

The busway section 12 includes a housing 18. The housing 18 may be formed of aluminum, for example. Referring to FIG. 3, the housing 18 is elongated and defines a longitudinal axis A1. The housing 18 has a length L1. The length L1 may be between about 0.5 to 10 feet in various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing 18 has a top or upper portion 20 and first and second opposing side portions 22, 24. A lower ledge 26 extends inwardly from each of the side portions 22, 24 and extends the length L1 of the housing 18. An upwardly extending lip 28 is at a distal edge of each ledge 26. The lips 28 may also be referred to as insulator alignment and/or engagement features.

The housing side portions 22, 24 each include a channel 32. The channel 32 is defined by an inner wall 34 and upper and lower opposite outer walls 36, 38. The inner walls 34 and the outer walls 36, 38 may also be referred to as insulator alignment and/or engagement features. An opening 40 to the channel 32 is defined between the upper and lower outer walls 36, 38. The channel 32 is sized and configured to slidably receive a joint cover assembly, as will be described in more detail below.

Extending from each of the housing inner walls 34 is a top or upper leg member 35 and a bottom or lower leg member 37. The upper and lower legs 35, 37 extend the length L1 of the housing 18 (FIG. 3). Each inner wall 34 and its corresponding upper and lower legs 35, 37 may collectively be referred to as an inner wall member of the housing.

The housing top portion 20 includes a pair of upper flanges 42 (e.g., generally L-shaped opposed flanges) that extend from a top or upper wall 21. The flanges 42 may be used for mounting or suspending the busway section 12. A lower flange 44 (e.g., a generally L-shaped flange) extends downwardly from each one of the ledges 26. The flanges 44 may be shaped and configured to receive finger safe seals as well as access barriers, as will be described in more detail below.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the busway section 12 includes first and second insulators 52, 54. The first and second insulators 52, 54 are received in the housing 18 at the first and second side portions 22, 24, respectively (FIGS. 3 and 4). The insulators 52, 54 are continuous and have the same length or about the same length as the length L1 of the housing (FIG. 3).

A perspective view of the insulator 52 is shown in FIG. 5 and an end view of the insulator 52 is shown in FIG. 6. When viewed from the end, the insulator 54 is a mirror image of the insulator 52. Accordingly, in the interest of brevity, only the insulator 52 will be described in detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the insulator 52 includes a top or upper portion 56, a central or middle portion 58 and a bottom or lower portion 60. The upper portion 56 includes an upper housing alignment and/or engagement feature, shown as an upper ledge 62 with a lip or projection 63 extending downwardly from the ledge 62. An upper outer groove or slot 65 is defined between the lip 63 and an outer surface 57 of the insulator upper portion 56. The upper portion 56 includes an upper surface 66. The upper portion 56 also includes an upper channel 68 that is sized and configured to receive and hold a conductor or bus bar. Inwardly extending projections 70, 72 define an opening 74 to the channel 68.

The central portion 58 of the insulator 52 includes an outer surface 76. Like the upper portion 56 of the insulator 52, the central portion 58 includes a channel 78 that is sized and configured to receive and hold a conductor or bus bar. Projections 80, 82 define an opening 84 to the channel 78.

Similarly, the lower portion 60 of the insulator 52 includes a channel 88 sized and configured to receive and hold a conductor or a bus bar. The channel 88 may be shaped and/or sized differently than the channel 68 and/or the channel 78. Projections 90, 92 define an opening 94 to the channel 88. The lower portion 60 also includes a lower housing alignment and/or engagement feature, shown as a lower ledge 96 with a lip or projection 97 extending upwardly from the ledge 96. A lower outer groove or slot 105 is defined between the lip 97 and an outer surface 61 of the insulator lower portion 60. The lower portion 60 further includes a lower surface 100. The projection 92 has a lip 102, and a lower inner groove or slot 104 is defined between the lower surface 100 and the lip 102.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the insulators 52, 54 installed in the housing 18. Specifically, the insulator 52 is installed at the side portion 22 of the housing 18 and the insulator 54 is installed at the opposite side portion 24 of the housing 18. The insulators 52, 54 extend continuously along the housing 18 (i.e., along the entire length L1 or substantially the entire length L1 of the housing 18). In some embodiments, the insulators 52, 54 are slidingly received in the housing 18 in the position shown in FIG. 7. The insulators 52, 54 may be slidingly received in the housing 18 in a direction that is parallel or generally parallel to the housing longitudinal axis A1 (FIG. 3).

Turning to FIG. 8, the housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54 are shaped and configured and have features such that the insulators 52, 54 can be aligned with the housing 18, guided into the housing 18 and held in place (e.g., securely held in place) in the housing 18. The upper legs 35 of the housing 18 are received in the upper outer grooves 65 of insulators 52, 54. The lower legs 37 of the housing 18 are received in the lower outer grooves 105 of the insulators 52, 54. The housing lips 28 are received in the lower inner insulator grooves or slots 104.

In position, the insulators 52, 54 are securely held in the housing 18. The insulators 52, 54 may be held in the housing 18 with an interference fit. Various portions of the insulators 52, 54 may be adjacent and/or abut the housing 18. As shown in FIG. 8, the insulator upper surfaces 66 are adjacent and/or abut the housing upper wall 21. The insulator upper ledges 62 are adjacent and/or abut the housing upper outer walls 36. The insulator lower ledges 96 are adjacent and/or abut the housing lower outer walls 38. The insulator central portion outer surfaces 76 are adjacent and/or abut the housing inner walls 34. The insulator lower surfaces 100 are adjacent and/or abut the housing lower ledges 26.

The shape of the housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54 facilitate a relatively lightweight and mechanically secure busway section design. Also, as can be seen in FIG. 8, a plurality of air gaps are defined between the housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54. These air gaps may provide a cooling path for increased efficiency.

The insulators 52, 54 may be formed of any suitable electrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, the insulators 52, 54 are formed of a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate. The insulators 52, 54 may be formed of Lexan™ available from SABIC (e.g., Lexan 935A).

Referring again to FIG. 2, the busway section 12 includes a plurality of conductors or bus bars 110, 112, 114, 116, 118. The conductors or bus bars 110, 112, 114, 116, 118 may be formed of any suitable electrically conductive material; an exemplary suitable material is copper.

Turning to FIG. 9, the conductors or bus bars are received in channels defined in the insulators 52, 54. The conductors 110, 112 and 114 are received in the channels 68, 78 and 88 of the insulator 52, respectively. The conductors 116 and 118 are received in the channels 68 and 78 of the insulator 54, respectively. In some embodiments, one of the conductors 114 is also received in the channel 88 of the insulator 54.

The conductors 110, 112 and 116 may be phase conductors or bus bars, the conductor 114 may be a ground conductor or bus bar, and the conductor 118 may be a neutral conductor or bus bar. Such a configuration can be used for a three phase busway system, although other configurations are contemplated including single phase and two phase busway systems.

The housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54 define a channel 120 in which plug-in units can be received and engage the conductors 110, 112, 114, 116, 118. The channel 120 is continuous along the length L1 of the housing 18 (FIG. 3) such that the busway section 12 can be used with a continuous plug-in busway system.

All of the conductors on one side of the busway section 12 are held in a single one of the insulators 52, 54; this configuration can provide certain advantages. Part count and assembly time may be reduced. Conductor location may be more easily controlled and repeatable. Creepage and clearance distances may also be more accurately controlled. Current leakage may be reduced. Also, as noted above, the continuous insulators may help provide the busway section with increased mechanical stiffness and/or support.

An alternative design for the housing and insulators is illustrated in FIG. 20. The housing 18′ is the same as the housing 18 except as described below, and the insulators 52′, 54′ are the same as the insulators 52, 54 except as described below. It will be understood that the housing 18′ and the insulators 52′, 54′ may be used in place of the housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54 for the busway section 12.

A track standoff 30 extends inwardly from each corner of the housing 18′. That is, an upper track standoff 30 extends downwardly and inwardly from each upper corner of the housing 18′ and a lower track standoff 30 extends upwardly and inwardly from each lower corner of the housing 18′. The standoffs 30 extend the length L1 of the housing 18′ (FIG. 3).

The upper portion 56 of the insulators 52′, 54′ includes a modified upper housing alignment and/or engagement feature or ledge 62′. A groove 64 is defined in the upper ledge 62′ and extends along the length of the upper ledge 62′. Similarly, the lower portion 60 of the insulators 52′, 54′ includes a modified housing alignment and/or engagement feature or ledge 96′. A groove 98 is defined in the lower ledge 96′ and extends along the length of the lower ledge 96′.

Like the insulators 52, 54, the insulators 52′, 54′ have a length that is the same or about the same as the length L1 of the housing 18′. The alignment and/or engagement features 62′, 96′ extend the entire length or substantially the entire length of the insulators 52′, 54′.

It can be seen that the housing 18′ and the insulators 52′, 54′ provide additional and/or alternative features to align and guide the insulators 52′, 54′ into the housing 18′ and to secure the insulators 52′, 54′ in the housing 18′. The housing upper standoffs 30 are received in the insulator upper grooves 64 and the housing lower standoffs 30 are received in the insulator lower grooves 98.

With the insulators 52′, 54′ received in the housing 18′, a respective upper housing engagement feature 62′ is adjacent and/or abuts a respective housing upper outer wall 36. The outer surface 57 of a respective insulator upper portion 56 is adjacent and/or abuts a respective housing inner wall 34.

Also, a respective lower housing engagement feature 96′ is adjacent and/or abuts a respective housing lower outer wall 38.

It will be appreciated that the housing 18′ and the insulators 52′, 54′ may include several of the alignment and engagement features described above in reference to the housing 18 and the insulators 52, 54. For example, referring to FIG. 8, the housing lips 28 may be received in the insulator lower inner grooves 104, the outer surface 76 of the insulator central or middle portion 58 may be adjacent and/or abut the housing inner wall 34, the insulator lower surface 100 of the insulator lower portion 60 may be adjacent and/or abut the housing lower ledge 26 and/or the insulator upper surface 66 of the insulator upper portion 56 may be adjacent and/or abut the housing upper wall 21.

Turning now to FIG. 10, an insulator 54″ is shown received in the housing 18. The insulator 54″ is the same as the insulator 54 with the exception of a larger channel 78′ to accommodate a larger or oversized neutral conductor or bus bar 118′ for a 150% neutral rating, for example. Other configurations, such as 200% neutral, are contemplated. Some known busway systems use multiple bus bars (e.g., a double bar configuration) to achieve a higher neural rating.

The modified insulator 54″ to accommodate the enlarged neutral bus bar is shaped and configured to be received in the housing 18 in the same way as the insulator 54. That is, the same housing 18 can be used to accommodate either the insulator 54 or the insulator 54″ depending on the desired neutral rating.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the busway section 12 may include first and second finger safe lip seals 122, 124. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the seals 122, 124 are shaped and configured to be received along the lower flanges 44 of the housing 18. The seals 122, 124 are formed of an electrically insulative material and provide a safety feature to help prevent or reduce the likelihood of contact with the housing 18 and/or the conductors 110, 112, 114, 116, 118 during installation or maintenance or when installing a plug-in device in the channel 120.

The seals 122, 124 may be used so that the busway system complies with safety regulations such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) “Finger Safe Probe” standard. This test is to help prevent accidental human interaction with the powered duct which may result in serious injury or death. The test determines whether a finger is able to make contact with a live conductor or the metallic housing. Some known busway systems do not include such finger safe seals and instead rely on paint thickness for protection.

In contrast to paint, the finger safe seals 122, 124 will not easily chip, degrade and/or wear over time. The seals 122, 124 may be formed of any suitable electrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, the seals 122, 124 are formed of a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate. The seals 122, 124 may be formed of Lexan™ available from SABIC.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-14, the joint assembly 16 (also referred to as a bridge joint assembly) includes first and second electrically insulative housings 130, 132. The housings 130, 132 may also be referred to as the joint insulators 130, 132. The joint assembly also includes a plurality of conductors or bus bars 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 that are sized and configured to be held in the housings 130, 132. Specifically, each of the housings 130, 132 includes channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 that are sized and configured to receive and hold the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142, respectively.

The housings 130, 132 may be formed of any suitable electrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, the housings 130, 132 are formed of a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate. The housings 130, 132 may be formed of Lexan™ available from SABIC (e.g., Lexan 3412ECR). The conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 may be formed of any suitable electrically conductive material; an exemplary suitable material is copper.

The channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 are at least partially defined in elongated conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162, respectively. Adjacent to or integrated with the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 are insulator engagement features. The insulator engagement features are configured to engage and/or be received in portions of the insulators 52, 54 of the busway section 12 (FIG. 9), as will be described in more detail below.

Slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 are at distal end portions of the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152, respectively, as well as at distal end portions of the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162, respectively. As described in additional detail below, the slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 partially expose the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 that are received in the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152. The slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 are tapered as they extend in a direction away from a base 186 of the housing 130 and in a direction away from a base 188 of the housing 132. In this regard, the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 narrow as they extend away from the base 186 of the housing 130 and as they extend away from the base 188 of the housing 132.

More specifically, and referring to FIG. 13, the conductor holding member 154 includes an inner portion 154 i and an outer portion 154 o, the conductor holding member 156 includes an inner portion 156 i and an outer portion 156 o, the conductor holding member 158 includes an inner portion 158 i and an outer portion 158 o, the conductor holding member 160 includes an inner portion 160 i and an outer portion 160 o, and the conductor holding member 162 includes an inner portion 162 i and an outer portion 162 o. The slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 are defined in the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 158 o, 160 o and 162 o. The insulative material of these outer portions taper along with the slots. Accordingly, the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 158 o, 160 o and 162 o may be referred to as tapered portions of the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162.

The housing 130 has first and second opposing sides 130A, 130B and the housing 132 has first and second opposing sides 132A, 132B. The first side 130A of the housing 130 is on one side of the base 186 and the second side 130B of the housing 130 is on the other side of the base 186. Similarly, the first side 132A of the housing 132 is on one side of the base 188 and the second side 132B of the housing 132 is on the other side of the base 188. The conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 are received in the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 at the housing first sides 130A, 132A. The conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 are held in the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 at the housing second sides 130B, 132B. A portion of each conductor 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 extends through and is exposed by the slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 at the housing second sides 130B, 132B.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 received in the housing 132. The housing 130 can be coupled to the housing 132 by aligning and receiving the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 in the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 of the housing 130. The housings 130, 132 may include additional alignment and/or engagement features. For example, such features may be on the base 186 or on an alignment face 190 of the housing 130 and/or on the base 188 or an alignment face 192 of the housing 132. As illustrated, alignment plug or post members 194 are on the alignment face 190 of the housing 130 and alignment plug receptacles 196 are on the alignment face 192 of the housing 132, with the receptacles 196 sized and configured to receive the plugs 194 as the housings 130, 132 are brought together. The plugs 194 may be tapered such that they narrow as they extend away from the face 190. Alternatively, the receptacles 196 may be tapered such that they narrow toward the face 192.

The base 188 of the housing 132 includes a flange 200 extending outwardly from an outer periphery of the alignment face 192. The flange 200 is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the base 186 of the housing 130 as the housings 130, 132 are brought together. This may further facilitate proper alignment and coupling of the housings 130, 132.

Referring again to FIGS. 11 and 12, the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 and at least a portion of the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 and/or the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 are generally T-shaped (or have a generally T-shaped cross-section or profile). This design may improve thermal performance by increasing surface area (e.g., surface area of the conductor that is substantially surrounded by and/or in contact with the insulative material of the housings 130, 132). The T-shaped design may also provide a repeatable contact between the joint conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 and the conductors in the busway sections 12, 14 when the joint assembly 16 is connected thereto. The T-shaped design of the conductors may also provide increased mechanical rigidity of the joint assembly 16 (as opposed to flat conductors, for example).

The joint assembly 16 is shown in an assembled state in FIG. 14. With reference to FIGS. 11-13, the joint assembly 16 may be mechanically secured by one or more securing features. For example, the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 may be received in the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 of the housings 130, 132 with an interference fit. The T-shaped conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 may increase mechanical rigidity of the joint due to increased contact area with the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 of the housings 130, 132. The plugs 194 on the alignment face 190 of the housing 130 may be received in the receptacles 196 on the alignment face 192 of the housing 132 (e.g., with interference fit due to the tapered design of the plugs or the receptacles). The base 186 of the housing 130 may be received in the flange 200 of the housing 132 with an interference fit.

The joint assembly 16 can be assembled without tools. The joint assembly 16 may include only the conductors and insulator housings. The joint assembly 16 may be held together without additional connection features. That is, unlike known joints that require features such as adhesives, clamps, straps and/or fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws and the like), the joint assembly 16 may be assembled and securely held together by one or more interference fits, including those described above.

Referring to FIG. 11, the T-shaped conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 include first sections 134A, 136A, 138A, 140A and 142A and transverse second sections 134B, 136B, 138B, 140B and 142B. The first sections 134A, 136A, 138A, 140A and 142A may be relatively thicker in a longitudinal direction than the corresponding second sections 134B, 136B, 138B, 140B and 142B. With the joint assembly 16 in its assembled state, the conductor first sections 134A, 136A, 138A, 140A and 142A may be completely or substantially completely enclosed in the housings 130, 132 (e.g., completely or substantially completely enclosed in the channels 144, 146, 148, 150 and 152 of the housings 130, 132). Portions of the conductor second sections 134B, 136B, 138B, 140B and 142B extend through and are exposed by the slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 of the housings 130, 132.

Therefore, the relatively thick conductor first sections 134A, 136A, 138A, 140A and 142A may be held in the conductor holding member inner portions 154 i, 156 i, 158 i, 160 i and 162 i (and may be enclosed or substantially enclosed by the conductor holding member inner portions 154 i, 156 i, 158 i, 160 i and 162 i). The relatively thin conductor second sections 134B, 136B, 138B, 140B and 142B may be held in the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 158 o, 160 o and 162 o, with a portion of a respective conductor second section 134B, 136B, 138B, 140B and 142B extending through and exposed by a respective slot 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182.

The joint assembly 16 serves to transfer current and voltage across two pieces of the busway system, such as the busway sections 12, 14. The joint covers 130, 132 substantially surround the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 to help mechanically stiffen the joint and to help meet electrical creepage and clearance requirements as set forth by UL standards, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards and National Electric Code (NEC) standards, for example. Also, as described in more detail below, the joint assembly 16 and the insulators 52, 54 of the busway sections 12, 14 have features and geometries that serve as an alignment guide during the assembly process.

Referring again to FIG. 14, the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 extend through their respective slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 to partially expose the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142. As described above, the slots 174, 176, 178, 180 and 182 are tapered such that the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 narrow as they extend away from an interface 210 between the housings 130, 132 (e.g., the mated housing bases 186, 188).

Each housing 130, 132 may include a plurality of insulator channel engagement features shown as outer block members 214, 216, 220 and 222. The block members 214, 216, 220 and 222 extend away from the base 186 of the housing 130 and extend away from the base 188 of the housing 132 in the same direction as the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162. The block members 214, 216, 220 and 222 are adjacent the conductor holding members 154, 156, 160 and 162, respectively. More specifically, the block members 214, 216, 220 and 222 are adjacent the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 160 o and 162 o, respectively.

In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 11, the block members 214, 216, 220 and 222 each include a wall 214 w, 216 w, 220 w and 222 w adjacent the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 160 o and 162 o, respectively. When installed, the conductors 134, 136, 140 and 142 may be adjacent and/or abut the walls 214 w, 216 w, 220 w and 222 w, respectively.

The block members 214, 216, 220 and 222 are sized and configured to be received in the channels 68 and 78 of the busway section insulators 52, 54 (FIG. 9), as will be described in more detail below.

The assembled joint assembly 16 and the assembled busway sections 12, 14 are illustrated in FIG. 15. The joint assembly can be moved toward either of the busway sections 12, 14 as shown by the arrow D1. FIG. 16 illustrates the joint assembly 16 coupled to the busway section 12. With reference to FIGS. 9, 14 and 19, the engagement of the joint assembly 16 and the busway section 12 according to some embodiments will now be described.

As the joint assembly 16 is brought in contact with the busway section 12, the exposed portions of the conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 of the joint assembly 16 are received in the openings 74, 84 and 94 defined in the insulators 52, 54. The conductors 134, 136, 138, 140 and 142 are electrically connected with the conductors 110, 112, 114, 116 and 118, respectively, that are held by the insulators 52, 54.

A portion of each of the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 may also be received in the openings 74, 84 and 94 defined by the insulators 52, 54 as the joint assembly 16 engages the busway section 12. Specifically, at least a portion of the outer or tapered portions 154 o, 156 o, 158 o, 160 o and 162 o (FIG. 13) may be received in the openings 74, 84, 94. As the conductors and the conductor holding member outer portions are received further in the openings (i.e., as the joint interface 210 is brought closer to an end 240 (FIG. 15) of the busway section 12), the conductor holding member outer portions 154 o, 156 o, 158 o, 160 o and 162 o may increasingly engage the insulators 52, 54 due to the taper of the outer portions described above. For example, referring to FIGS. 6, 9 and 13, the outer portion 154 o may increasingly engage the projection 70 and/or the projection 72 of the insulator 52, the outer portion 156 o may increasingly engage the projection 80 and/or the projection 82 of the insulator 52, the outer portion 158 o may increasingly engage the projection 90 and/or the projection 92 of the insulator 52, the outer portion 160 o may increasingly engage the projection 70 and/or the projection 72 of the insulator 54, and the outer portion 162 o may increasingly engage the projection 80 and/or the projection 82 of the insulator 54.

Referring to FIG. 19, the conductors 110 and 116 are shown held in the channel 68 of the insulator 52 and the channel 68 of the insulator 54, respectively. As illustrated, the conductors 110, 116 have a length that is shorter than the length of the insulators 52, 54. Accordingly, open spaces or gaps 68 g are defined in end portions of the channels 68 between ends 52 e, 54 e of the insulators 52, 54 (or ends 68 e of the channels 68) and ends 110 e, 116 e of the conductors 110, 116. The conductors 112, 114 and/or 118 may also be shorter in length than the insulators 52, 54 and corresponding open spaces or gaps may be defined in end portions of the channels 78 and 88 of the insulators 52, 54.

As can be seen from FIG. 19, as the joint assembly 16 engages the busway section 12 (or the busway section 14), the joint assembly block member 214 is slidingly received in the channel 68 of the insulator 52 and the joint assembly block member 220 is slidingly received in the channel 68 of the insulator 54. As the joint assembly 16 and busway section 12 are further brought together, the joint assembly block member 214 is further slidingly received in the channel 68 of the insulator 52 such that an end 214 e of the block member 214 is adjacent and/or abuts the end 110 e of the conductor 110. When the joint assembly 16 and busway section 12 are fully engaged, the joint assembly block member 214 may fill or substantially fill the gap or open space 68 g in the channel 68 of the insulator 52. Similarly, the joint assembly block member 220 is slidingly received in the channel 68 of the insulator 54 such that an end 220 e of the block member 220 is adjacent and/or abuts the end 116 e of the conductor 116. When the joint assembly 16 and busway section 12 are fully engaged, the joint assembly block member 220 may fill or substantially fill the gap or open space 68 g in the channel 68 of the insulator 54.

It will be appreciated that the joint assembly block members 216 and 222 (FIG. 14) may be slidingly received and held in channels of the insulators 52, 54 (FIG. 9) in a similar way. For example, the block member 216 may be sized and configured to be slidingly received in the channel 78 of the insulator 52 such that, when the joint assembly 16 and busway section 12 are fully engaged, an end of the block member 216 is adjacent and/or abuts an end of the conductor 112. Similarly, the block member 222 may be sized and configured to be slidingly received in the channel 78 of the insulator 54 such that, when the joint assembly 16 and busway section 12 are fully engaged, an end of the block member 222 is adjacent and/or abuts an end of the conductor 118.

Also, when the busway section 12 and the joint assembly 16 are coupled, the inner portions of the conductor holding members 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 may be adjacent and/or abut the insulators 52, 54. For example, the inner portion 154 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 70 and/or the projection 72 of the insulator 52, the inner portion 156 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 80 and/or the projection 82 of the insulator 52, the inner portion 158 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 90 and/or the projection 92 of the insulator 52, the inner portion 160 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 70 and/or the projection 72 of the insulator 54, and the inner portion 162 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 80 and/or the projection 82 of the insulator 54.

It will be appreciated that various features and geometry of the housing 18, the insulators 52, 54 and the joint assembly 16 may help facilitate alignment of the joint 16 and the busway section 12. These features may also help facilitate a tight mechanical connection between the joint assembly 16 and the busway section 12. These features may further help provide an improved electrical connection between the busway section 12 and the joint 16 (as well as between busway sections that are connected by the joint, such as the busway sections 12, 14 connected by the joint 16).

A joint cover or joint cover assembly 250 is illustrated in FIGS. 15-17. The joint cover 250 includes a housing 252. The housing 252 includes a bottom or lower wall 254, a pair of opposed sidewalls 256, and a pair of opposed top or upper ledges 258, with one of the ledges 258 extending from each sidewall 256. Each of the sidewalls 256 includes a pair of apertures 260 (FIG. 1), through which a fastener 262 may be received and connect to a rail 264. The rails 264 are shaped, sized and configured to fit and slide within the channels 32 of the housing side portions 22, 24. The rails 264 may be generally T-shaped so that the rail 264 is retained in the channel 32 (while also being slidable in the channel).

Each of the fasteners has a distal end portion 266 that can be received in an aperture 270 in the housing channel 32. Referring to FIG. 17, joint cover 250 can be coupled to the busway section 12 by aligning the rails 264 with the channels 32 and then receiving the rails 264 in the channels 32. The upper ledges 258 of the joint cover 250 rest on the top wall 21 of the busway section housing 18. The position of the joint cover 250 can be adjusted by sliding the joint cover 250 in either direction shown by the arrow D2. The fasteners 262 can be aligned with apertures 270 and then tightened to lock or secure the joint cover 250 in place.

FIG. 18 illustrates the busway system 10 in an assembled state with the joint cover 250 coupled to the first and second busway sections 12, 14 that are electrically and mechanically connected by the joint assembly 16. The joint 16 and the busway section 14 may be aligned and coupled in the same way as described above in reference to the joint 16 and the busway section 12. The position of the joint cover 250 can be adjusted by loosening the fasteners 262 and sliding the joint cover 250 in either direction as shown by the arrow D2.

Therefore, the joint cover 250 does not require assembly and/or disassembly during installation or maintenance procedures, for example. When the fasteners 262 are loosened, the cover 250 is slidable axially down the busway. This design is convenient and useful during installation and maintenance procedures, and reduces the likelihood that parts may be damaged or lost. Some known joint covers need to be disassembled and removed prior to maintenance of the busway sections and/or the joint.

The joint cover 250 can provide additional advantages. The cover may help further mechanically fasten two sections of the busway together. For example, when the fasteners are tightened, the cover 250 may apply pressure to the housing 18 and/or the insulators 52, 54 of the busway sections 12, 14 and/or the insulating housings 30, 32 of the joint assembly 16 for a more secure mechanical connection. This may also increase contact pressure between the conductors in the busway sections 12, 14 and/or the conductors in the joint assembly 16 for increased electrical efficiency. Moreover, the rails 264 may serve as ground blocks (e.g., T-shaped ground blocks) to create and maintain a housing ground path. That is, when the joint cover 250 is installed for operation, the ground block or rails 264 may form a housing ground path between adjacent busway sections 12, 14.

A busway or bus duct system assembly 300 according to some embodiments is illustrated in FIG. 21. The busway assembly 300 shares some of the same or similar features of the busway assembly 10 with the primary differences described below and shown in the accompanying drawings.

The busway assembly 300 includes first and second busway or bus duct sections 312, 314. A joint assembly 316 is disposed between the first and second busway sections 312, 314. The busway assembly 300 typically forms a portion of a larger busway system or busway run, and one or more additional busway sections, joint assemblies and/or other components may be included in the larger busway system.

The busway section 312 is illustrated in FIG. 22. The busway section 314 has substantially the same structure as the busway section 312; accordingly, in the interest of brevity, only the busway section 312 will be described in detail below.

The busway section 312 includes a housing 318. The housing 318 may be formed of any suitable material such as, for example, aluminum. Referring to FIG. 23, the housing 318 is elongated and defines a longitudinal axis A1. The housing 318 has a length L1. The length L1 may be between about 0.5 to 10 feet in various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the housing 318 has a top or upper portion 320 and first and second opposing side portions 322, 324. A lower ledge 326 extends inwardly from each of the side portions 322, 324 and extends the length L1 of the housing 318.

Each side portion 322, 324 of the housing 318 includes an inner wall 334 and upper and lower opposite outer walls 336, 338. The inner wall 334 is offset from the upper and lower walls 336, 338 by upper and lower intermediate walls 339U, 339L.

The housing side portions 322, 324 each include a channel 332. The channel 332 is defined by the inner wall 334, the upper and lower opposite outer walls 336, 338, and the upper and lower intermediate walls 339U, 339L. An opening 340 to the channel 332 is defined between the upper and lower outer walls 336, 338. The channel 332 is sized and configured to slidably receive a joint cover assembly, as will be described in more detail below.

Extending from each of the housing inner walls 334 is a top or upper leg member 335 and a bottom or lower leg member 337. The upper and lower legs 335, 337 extend the length L1 of the housing 318 (FIG. 23). Each inner wall 334 and its corresponding upper and lower legs 335, 337 may collectively be referred to as an inner wall member of the housing.

The housing top portion 320 includes a pair of upper flanges 342 (e.g., generally L-shaped opposed flanges) that extend from a top or upper wall 321. The flanges 342 may be used for mounting or suspending the busway section 312. A lower flange 344 (e.g., a generally L-shaped flange) extends downwardly from each one of the ledges 326. The flanges 344 may be shaped and configured to receive finger safe seals as well as access barriers, as will be described in more detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, a notch 341 is defined in the upper wall 321 of the housing 318. As will be described in more detail below, the notch 341 is configured to receive a projection of the joint assembly 316 for alignment and/or guidance purposes.

Referring again to FIG. 22, the busway section 312 includes first and second insulators 352, 354. The first and second insulators 352, 354 are received in the housing 318 at the first and second side portions 322, 324, respectively (FIGS. 23 and 24). The insulators 352, 354 are continuous and have the same length (L2 in FIG. 25) or about the same length as the length L1 of the housing 318 (FIG. 23).

A perspective view of the insulator 352 is shown in FIG. 25 and an end view of the insulator 352 is shown in FIG. 26. When viewed from the end, the insulator 354 is a mirror image of the insulator 352. Accordingly, in the interest of brevity, only the insulator 352 will be described in detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the insulator 352 includes a top or upper portion 356, a central or middle portion 358 and a bottom or lower portion 360. The upper portion 356 includes an upper ledge 362 with a lip or projection 363 extending downwardly from the ledge 362. An upper outer groove or slot 365 is defined between the lip 363 and an outer surface or wall 357 of the insulator 352 (or a central portion 357C thereof). The upper portion 356 includes an upper surface or wall 366. The upper portion 356 also includes an upper channel 368 that is sized and configured to receive and/or hold a conductor or bus bar. Inwardly extending projections 370, 372 define an opening 374 to the channel 368. Each of the projections 370, 372 include a raised portion 371, 373 such that the channel 368 narrows between the raised portion 371, 373.

The outer wall 357 (or the central portion 357C thereof) of the insulator 352 extends downwardly to the central portion 358 of the insulator 352. Like the upper portion 356 of the insulator 352, the central portion 358 includes a channel 378 that is sized and configured to receive and/or hold a conductor or bus bar. Projections 380, 382 define an opening 384 to the channel 378. Each of the projections 380, 382 include a raised portion 381, 383 such that the channel 378 narrows between the raised portion 381, 383.

Similarly, the lower portion 360 of the insulator 352 includes a channel 388 sized and configured to receive and/or hold a conductor or a bus bar. The channel 388 may have the same shape and/or size as the channel 368 and/or the channel 378. Projections 390, 392 define an opening 394 to the channel 388. Each of the projections 390, 392 include a raised portion 391, 393 such that the channel 388 narrows between the raised portion 391, 393. The lower portion 360 also includes a lower ledge 396 with a lip or projection 397 extending upwardly from the ledge 396. A lower outer groove or slot 405 is defined between the lip 397 and the outer wall 357 of the insulator 352 (or the central portion 357C thereof).

The lower portion 360 of the insulator 352 further includes a lower surface or wall 400. A lip 402 extends downwardly from the lower surface or wall 400.

According to some embodiments, the central portion 357C of the insulator outer wall 357 extends between the upper ledge 362 and the lower ledge 396. According to some embodiments, an upper portion 357U of the insulator outer wall 357 extends between the upper ledge 362 and the upper wall 366. According to some embodiments, a lower portion 357L of the insulator outer wall 357 extends between the lower ledge 396 and the lower wall 400.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating the insulators 352, 354 installed in the housing 318. Specifically, the insulator 352 is installed at the side portion 322 of the housing 318 and the insulator 354 is installed at the opposite side portion 324 of the housing 318. The insulators 352, 354 may extend continuously along the housing 318 (i.e., along the entire length L1 or substantially the entire length L1 of the housing 318). In some embodiments, the insulators 352, 354 are slidingly received in the housing 318 in the position shown in FIG. 27. The insulators 352, 354 may be slidingly received in the housing 318 in a direction that is parallel or generally parallel to the housing longitudinal axis A1 (FIG. 23).

Turning to FIG. 28, the housing 318 and the insulators 352, 354 are shaped and configured and have features such that the insulators 352, 354 can be aligned with the housing 318, guided into the housing 318 and/or held in place (e.g., securely held in place) in the housing 318. The upper legs 335 of the housing 318 are received in the upper outer grooves 365 of insulators 352, 354. The lower legs 337 of the housing 318 are received in the lower outer grooves 405 of the insulators 352, 354.

In position, the insulators 352, 354 may be securely held in the housing 318. The insulators 352, 354 may be held in the housing 318 with an interference fit. Various portions of the insulators 352, 354 may be adjacent and/or abut the housing 318. As shown in FIG. 28, the insulator upper walls 366 are adjacent and/or abut the housing upper wall 321. The insulator upper ledges 362 are adjacent and/or abut the housing upper outer walls 336. The insulator lower ledges 396 are adjacent and/or abut the housing lower outer walls 338. The insulator outer walls 357 (or the central portions 357C thereof) are adjacent and/or abut the housing inner walls 334. The insulator lower walls 400 are adjacent and/or abut the housing lower ledges 326. The insulator lips 402 overhang and/or wrap around the housing lower ledges 326 (or ends 326 e thereof).

The shape of the housing 318 and the insulators 352, 354 facilitate a relatively lightweight and mechanically secure busway section design. Also, as can be seen in FIG. 28, a plurality of air gaps G are defined between the housing 318 and the insulators 352, 354. These air gaps may provide a cooling path for increased efficiency.

The insulators 352, 354 may be formed of any suitable electrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, the insulators 352, 354 are formed of a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate. The insulators 352, 354 may be formed of Lupoy™ available from LG Chem (e.g., LG LUPOY NF 1005F03R).

Referring again to FIG. 22, the busway section 300 includes a plurality of conductors or bus bars 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 419. The conductors or bus bars 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 419 may be formed of any suitable electrically conductive material; an exemplary suitable material is copper.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the bus bar conductor 410 and FIG. 30 is an end view of the conductor 410. The conductors 412, 414, 416, 418 and 419 are the same or substantially the same as the conductor 410; therefore, in the interest of brevity, only the conductor 410 will be described in detail below.

The conductor 410 has a length L3. According to some embodiments, the length L3 is less than the length L1 of the housing 318 (FIG. 23) and/or the length L2 of the insulators 352, 354 (FIG. 25). According to some embodiments, the length L3 of the conductor 410 is about 1 to 2 inches less than the length L1 of the housing 318 and/or the length L2 of the insulators 352, 354. According to some embodiments, the length L3 of the conductor 410 is about 1 to 1.25 inches less than the length L1 of the housing 318 and/or the length L2 of the insulators 352, 354.

Referring to FIG. 30, the conductor 410 may have a “butterfly” profile. More specifically, the conductor 410 includes a straight or generally straight outer portion 410_O and opposite upper and lower (or first and second) curved or bent portions 410U, 410L. The upper portion 410U includes a first upper portion 410U1 that extends away from the outer portion 410_O and curves or bends downwardly and a second upper portion 410U2 that extends away from the first upper portion 410U1 and curves or bends upwardly. A contact surface 410S is defined between or at an interface of the first and second upper portions 410U1, 410U2 (although it will be understood that the contact surface 410S may be defined by a portion of the first upper portion 410U1 and/or a portion of the second upper portion 410U2). The second upper portion 410U2 terminates at a first inner end 410I1 of the conductor 410.

Similarly, the lower portion 410L includes a first lower portion 410L1 that extends away from the outer portion 410_O and curves or bends upwardly and a second lower portion 410L2 that extends away from the first lower portion 410L1 and curves or bends downwardly. A contact surface 410S is defined between or at an interface of the first and second lower portions 410L1, 410L2 (although it will be understood that the contact surface 410S may be defined by a portion of the first lower portion 410L1 and/or a portion of the second lower portion 410L2). The second lower portion 410L2 terminates at a second inner end 410I2 of the conductor 410.

The conductor outer portion 410_O and the upper and lower portions 410U, 410L define a lengthwise channel 410 c. The channel 410 c tapers inwardly from the first and second inner ends 410I1, 410I2 to the contact surface 410S of the conductor 410. In other words, the conductor 410 includes a flared opening 410F to the channel 410 c. This may facilitate alignment and/or guidance for the insertion of a conductor of a plug-in unit to be received in the channel 410 c.

The conductor 410 includes the double-sided (or dual pressure) contact surface 410S to provide increased contact surface area and/or compressive force on conductors received in the channel 410 c of the conductor 410. As described in more detail herein, such conductors may be associated with bridge joints or plug-in units.

It will be appreciated that each of the conductors 412, 414, 416, 418, 419 shares the same features and advantages described above in reference to the conductor 410. For example, each of the conductors 412, 414, 416, 418, 419 includes a double-sided contact surface 412S, 414S, 416S, 418S, 419S, a channel 412 c, 414 c, 416 c, 418 c, 419 c, and a flared opening 412F, 414F, 416F, 418F, 419F as described above.

Turning to FIG. 31, the conductors or bus bars are received in channels defined in the insulators 352, 354. The conductors 410 and 412 are received in the channels 368 and 378 of the insulator 352, respectively. The conductor 416 is received in the channel 368 of the insulator 354. In some embodiments, the conductor 414 is received in the channel 388 of the insulator 352. In some embodiments, the conductor 418 is received in the channel 378 of the insulator 354. In some embodiments, the conductor 419 is received in the channel 388 of the insulator 354.

The conductors 410, 412 and 416 may be phase conductors or bus bars, the conductor 414 may be a ground conductor or bus bar, and the conductor 418 may be a neutral conductor or bus bar. Such a configuration can be used for a three phase busway system, although other configurations are contemplated including single phase and two phase busway systems.

In some embodiments, the conductor 414, the conductor 418 and/or the conductor 419 may be omitted. For example, the conductor 414 may be omitted and the housing 318 may provide standard ground. As described above in reference to the busway system 10, the rails 264 of the joint cover assembly 250 (FIG. 21) may serve as ground blocks (e.g., T-shaped ground blocks) to create and maintain a housing ground path. That is, when the joint cover 250 is installed for operation, the ground block or rails 264 may form a housing ground path between adjacent busway sections 312, 314. Where used, the conductor 414 may be a ground conductor or bus bar for a 200% ground rating.

Where used, the conductor 418 may be a neutral conductor or bus bar and may provide standard neutral. Where used in combination with the conductor 418, the conductor 419 may be a neutral conductor or bus bar for a 200% neutral rating.

The conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 419 may all be the same size and shape. This may reduce manufacturing costs and provide reliability and repeatability of fit within the insulator channels and placement of the contact surface area for a conductor to be coupled thereto.

The upper and lower portions of each conductor (e.g., the upper and lower portions 410U, 410L of the conductor 410 shown in FIG. 30) may be resilient. The raised portions of the insulator projections (e.g., the raised portions 371, 373 of the projections 370, 372 shown in FIG. 26) may be adjacent and/or abut the upper and lower portions of the conductor (e.g., the upper and lower portions 410U, 410L of the conductor 410 shown in FIG. 30) to help ensure that the upper and lower portions are spaced apart the correct distance.

The housing 318 and the insulators 352, 354 define a channel 420 in which plug-in units can be received and engage the conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 419. The channel 420 is continuous along the length L1 of the housing 318 (FIG. 23) such that the busway section 312 can be used with a continuous plug-in busway system.

All of the conductors on one side of the busway section 312 are held in a single one of the insulators 352, 354; this configuration can provide the advantages described above in reference to the insulators 52 and 54.

Referring back to FIG. 22, the busway section 312 may include first and second finger safe lip seals 422, 424. As illustrated in FIG. 31, the seals 422, 424 are shaped and configured to be received along the lower flanges 344 of the housing 318. The seals 422, 424 are formed of an electrically insulative material (e.g., a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate material such as LG LUPOY NF 1005F03R) and provide a safety feature to help prevent or reduce the likelihood of contact with the housing 318 and/or the conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 419 during installation or maintenance or when installing a plug-in device in the channel 420.

The seals 422, 424 may be the same or substantially the same as the finger safe lip seals 122, 124 described above and provide the same advantages. For example, the seals 422, 424 may be used so that the busway system complies with safety regulations such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) “Finger Safe Probe” standard.

Referring now to FIGS. 32-35, the joint assembly 316 (also referred to as a bridge joint assembly) includes first and second electrically insulative housings 430, 432. The housings 430, 432 may also be referred to as the joint insulators 430, 432. The joint assembly 316 also includes a plurality of conductors or bus bars 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 that are sized and configured to be held in the housings 430, 432. Specifically, each of the housings 430, 432 includes channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 that are sized and configured to receive and hold the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442, respectively.

The housings 430, 432 may be formed of any suitable electrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, the housings 430, 432 are formed of a polycarbonate or a thermoplastic polycarbonate. The housings 430, 432 may be formed of Lexan™ available from SABIC (e.g., Lexan 3412ECR). The conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 may be formed of any suitable electrically conductive material; an exemplary suitable material is copper.

The channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 are at least partially defined in elongated conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462, respectively.

Slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 are at distal end portions of the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452, respectively, as well as at distal end portions of the conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462, respectively. The slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 may be L-shaped. As described in additional detail below, the slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 partially expose the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 that are received in the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452. The slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 may be tapered as they extend in a direction away from a base 486 of the housing 430 and in a direction away from a base 488 of the housing 432. In this regard, inner portions of the conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462 may narrow as they extend away from the base 486 of the housing 430 and as they extend away from the base 488 of the housing 432.

More specifically, and referring to FIGS. 32 and 34, the conductor holding member 454 includes an inner portion 454 i and an outer portion 454 o, the conductor holding member 456 includes an inner portion 456 i and an outer portion 456 o, the conductor holding member 458 includes an inner portion 458 i and an outer portion 458 o, the conductor holding member 459 includes an inner portion 459 i and an outer portion 459 o, the conductor holding member 460 includes an inner portion 460 i and an outer portion 460 o, and the conductor holding member 462 includes an inner portion 462 i and an outer portion 462 o. The insulative material of these inner portions taper along with the slots.

The housing 430 has first and second opposing sides 430A, 430B and the housing 432 has first and second opposing sides 432A, 432B. The first side 430A of the housing 430 is on one side of the base 486 and the second side 430B of the housing 430 is on the other side of the base 486. Similarly, the first side 432A of the housing 432 is on one side of the base 488 and the second side 432B of the housing 432 is on the other side of the base 488. The conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 are received in the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 at the housing first sides 430A, 432A. The conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 are held in the conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462 at the housing second sides 430B, 432B. A portion of each conductor 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 extends through and is exposed by the slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 at the housing second sides 430B, 432B.

FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 received in the housing 432. The housing 430 can be coupled to the housing 432 by aligning and receiving the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 in the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 of the housing 430. The housings 430, 432 may include additional alignment and/or engagement features. For example, such features may be on the base 486 or on an alignment face 490 of the housing 430 and/or on the base 488 or an alignment face 492 of the housing 432. As illustrated, alignment plug or post members 494 are on the alignment face 490 of the housing 430 and alignment plug receptacles 496 are on the alignment face 492 of the housing 432, with the receptacles 496 sized and configured to receive the plugs 494 as the housings 430, 432 are brought together. The plugs 494 may be tapered such that they narrow as they extend away from the face 490. Alternatively, the receptacles 496 may be tapered such that they narrow toward the face 492.

The base 488 of the housing 432 includes a flange 500 extending outwardly from an outer periphery of the alignment face 492. The flange 500 may be sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the base 486 of the housing 430 as the housings 430, 432 are brought together. This may further facilitate proper alignment and coupling of the housings 430, 432.

Referring again to FIGS. 32 and 33, the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 and at least a portion of the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 and/or the conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462 are generally L-shaped (or have a generally L-shaped cross-section or profile). This design may improve thermal performance by increasing surface area (e.g., surface area of the conductor that is substantially surrounded by and/or in contact with the insulative material of the housings 430, 432). The L-shaped design may also provide a repeatable contact between the joint conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 and the conductors in the busway sections 312, 314 when the joint assembly 316 is connected thereto. The L-shaped design of the conductors may also provide increased mechanical rigidity of the joint assembly 316 (as opposed to flat conductors, for example).

Referring to FIG. 32, the L-shaped conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 include first portions or sections 434A, 436A, 438A, 439A, 440A and 442A and perpendicular or transverse second portions or sections 434B, 436B, 438B, 439B, 440B and 442B. With the joint assembly 316 in its assembled state, the conductor first sections 434A, 436A, 438A, 439A, 440A and 442A may be completely or substantially completely enclosed in the housings 430, 432 (e.g., completely or substantially completely enclosed in the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 of the housings 430, 432). Portions of the conductor second sections 434B, 436B, 438B, 439B, 440B and 442B extend through and are exposed by the slots 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482 of the housings 430, 432.

The conductor first sections 434A, 436A, 438A, 439A, 440A and 442A may be held in the conductor holding member inner portions 454 i, 456 i, 458 i, 459 i, 460 i and 462 i (and may be enclosed or substantially enclosed by the conductor holding member inner portions 454 i, 456 i, 458 i, 459 i, 460 i and 462 i). The conductor second sections 434B, 436B, 438B, 439A, 440B and 442B may be at least partially held in the conductor holding member outer portions 454 o, 456 o, 458 o, 459 o, 460 o and 462 o, with a portion of a respective conductor second section 434B, 436B, 438B, 439B, 440B and 442B extending through and exposed by a respective slot 474, 476, 478, 479, 480 and 482.

A tapered end portion 434T, 436T, 438T, 439T, 440T and 442T may be at each opposite end of the joint conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442, respectively. Specifically, the conductor second sections 434B, 436B, 438B, 439B, 440B and 442B may include the tapered portions. For example, referring to FIG. 32, the conductor 434 includes first and second opposite ends 434C, 434D and a central portion 434F, and the tapered portions 434T are at the first and second opposite ends 434C, 434D of the conductor 434. The tapered portions 434T narrow from the central portion 434F toward each of the first and second opposite ends 434C, 434D. The tapered portions 434T, 436T, 438T, 439T, 440T and 442T may facilitate alignment and/or guidance and allow for easier coupling with the conductors of the busway sections 312, 314, as described in more detail below.

The joint assembly 316 is shown in an assembled state in FIG. 35. With reference to FIGS. 32-34, the joint assembly 316 may be mechanically secured by one or more securing features. For example, the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 may be received in the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 of the housings 430, 432 with an interference fit. The L-shaped conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 may increase mechanical rigidity of the joint due to increased contact area with the channels 444, 446, 448, 449, 450 and 452 of the housings 430, 432. The plugs 494 on the alignment face 490 of the housing 430 may be received in the receptacles 496 on the alignment face 492 of the housing 432 (e.g., with interference fit due to the tapered design of the plugs or the receptacles). The base 486 of the housing 430 may be received in the flange 500 of the housing 432 with an interference fit.

The joint assembly 316 can be assembled without tools. The joint assembly 316 may include only the conductors and insulator housings. The joint assembly 316 may be held together without additional connection features. That is, unlike some known joints that require features such as adhesives, clamps, straps and/or fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws and the like), the joint assembly 316 may be assembled and securely held together by one or more interference fits, including those described above.

The joint assembly 316 serves to transfer current and voltage across two pieces of the busway system, such as the busway sections 312, 314. The joint covers 430, 432 substantially surround the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 to help mechanically stiffen the joint and to help meet electrical creepage and clearance requirements as set forth by UL standards, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards and National Electric Code (NEC) standards, for example. According to some embodiments, the busway system 300 complies with UL 857 (“Busways”) specifications. Also, as described in more detail below, the joint assembly 316 and the insulators 352, 354 of the busway sections 312, 314 have features and geometries that serve as an alignment guide during the assembly process.

Referring again to FIGS. 34 and 35, the joint assembly 316 includes a projection 489. For example, the projection 489 may be on the second joint housing 432. The notch 341 in the housing 318 (FIGS. 23 and 24) may receive the projection 489 during installation to assist with alignment and/or guidance.

The assembled joint assembly 316 and the assembled busway sections 312, 314 may be coupled in a similar way as described above in reference to FIGS. 15-18. For example, the joint assembly 316 can be moved toward the busway section 312, 14 as shown by the arrow D3 in FIG. 36. FIG. 36 illustrates the joint assembly 316 coupled to the busway section 312 with the projection 489 of the joint assembly 316 received in the notch 341 of the busway section 312. FIG. 37 illustrates the joint assembly 316 coupled to the busway sections 312, 314 (with the joint cover 250 obscuring the joint assembly 316). With reference to FIGS. 31-40, the engagement of the joint assembly 316 and the busway section 312 according to some embodiments will now be described in more detail.

As the joint assembly 316 is moved toward the busway section 312, the exposed portions of the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 of the joint assembly 316 are received in the channels 368, 378 and 388 defined in the insulators 352, 354. As the joint assembly 316 is further moved toward the busway section 312 (e.g., brought in contact with the busway section 312), the conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 are electrically connected with the conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 418 and 419, respectively, that are held by the insulators 352, 354.

More specifically, the joint conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 are slidingly received in the channels 410 c, 412 c, 414 c, 416 c, 418 c and 419 c, respectively, of the busway section conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 417, 418 and 419. The tapered portions 434T, 436T, 438T, 439T, 440T and 442T at one end of the joint conductors 434, 436, 438, 439, 440 and 442 may help facilitate insertion into the busway section conductor channels 410 c, 412 c, 414 c, 416 c, 418 c and 419 c. Each joint conductor is slidingly received between the upper and lower portions of the corresponding busway section conductor and makes contact with the contact surface defined thereby. For example, the joint conductor 436 is received in the channel 412 c defined by the busway section conductor 412. The joint conductor 436 is received between the upper and lower portions 412U, 412L of the conductor 412 and contacts the contact surface 412S defined by the upper and lower portions 412U, 412L of the conductor 412.

As described above, each of the busway section insulators 352, 354 may be longer than each of the busway section conductors 410, 412, 414, 416, 417, 418 and 419. Therefore, gaps 368 g, 378 g and 388 g are formed in the insulator channels 368, 378 and 388, respectively.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, open spaces or gaps 68 g are defined in end portions of the channels 368 between ends 368 e of the channels 368 and ends 410 e, 416 e of the conductors 410, 416. Open spaces or gaps 378 g are defined in end portions of the channels 378 between ends 378 e of the channels 378 and ends 412 e, 418 e of the conductors 412, 418. Open spaces or gaps 388 g are defined in end portions of the channels 388 between ends 388 e of the channels 388 and ends 414 e, 419 e of the conductors 414, 419.

The joint assembly conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462 may be slidingly received in the insulator channel gaps 368 g, 378 g and 388 g when the joint assembly 316 is coupled to the first busway section 312.

In particular, the joint assembly conductor holding member 454 (or the outer portion 454 o thereof) may be received in the gap 368 g defined in the channel 368 of the insulator 352, the conductor holding member 456 (or the outer portion 456 o thereof) may be received in the gap 378 g defined in the channel 378 of the insulator 352, the conductor holding member 458 (or the outer portion 458 o thereof) may be received in the gap 388 g defined in the channel 388 of the insulator 352, the conductor holding member 459 (or the outer portion 459 o thereof) may be received in the gap 388 g defined in the channel 388 of the insulator 354, the conductor holding member 460 (or the outer portion 460 o thereof) may be received in the gap 368 g defined in the channel 368 of the insulator 354 and the conductor holding member 462 (or the outer portion 462 o thereof) may be received in the gap 378 g defined in the channel 378 of the insulator 354.

Also, when the busway section 12 and the joint assembly 16 are coupled, the inner portions 454 i, 456 i, 458 i, 459 i, 460 i and 462 i of the conductor holding members 454, 456, 458, 459, 460 and 462 may be adjacent and/or abut the insulators 352, 354. For example, referring to FIGS. 26, 32 and 34, the inner portion 454 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 370 and/or the projection 372 of the insulator 352, the inner portion 456 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 380 and/or the projection 382 of the insulator 352, the inner portion 458 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 390 and/or the projection 392 of the insulator 352, the inner portion 459 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 390 and/or the projection 392 of the insulator 354, the inner portion 460 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 370 and/or the projection 372 of the insulator 354, and the inner portion 462 i may be adjacent and/or abut the projection 380 and/or the projection 382 of the insulator 354.

It will be appreciated that various features and geometry of the housing 318, the insulators 352, 354 and the joint assembly 316 may help facilitate alignment of the joint 316 and the busway section 312. These features may also help facilitate a tight mechanical connection between the joint assembly 316 and the busway section 312. These features may further help provide an improved electrical connection between the busway section 312 and the joint 316 (as well as between busway sections that are connected by the joint, such as the busway sections 312, 314 connected by the joint 316).

The joint 316 and the busway section 314 may be aligned and coupled in the same way as described above in reference to the joint 316 and the busway section 312. The joint cover or joint cover assembly 250 may be installed in the same or similar way as described above in reference to FIGS. 15-17 to form the assembled busway system 300 shown in FIG. 37. The joint cover 250 may provide the same advantages as described above.

The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.

Claims (19)

That which is claimed is:

1. A busway assembly comprising:

a first busway section comprising a first busway section housing including first and second opposite side portions;

a second busway section comprising a second busway section housing including first and second opposite side portions; and

a joint assembly configured to be positioned between and to couple the first and second busway sections, the joint assembly comprising a joint housing,

wherein a projection on the joint housing is configured to be received in a notch defined in one of the first and second busway section housings, and

wherein the other one of the first and second busway section housings is free of a notch configured to receive the projection when the first and second busway sections are coupled by the joint assembly.

2. The busway assembly of claim 1 wherein:

the projection is on an upper portion of the joint housing; and

the notch is defined in an upper portion of one of the first and second busway section housings.

3. The busway assembly of claim 1 wherein the joint housing comprises first and second joint housings that are configured to be connected to one another.

4. The busway assembly of claim 3 wherein:

the projection is on an upper portion of one of the first and second joint housings; and

the notch is defined in an upper portion of one of the first and second busway section housings.

5. The busway assembly of claim 1 further comprising a joint cover comprising a joint cover housing configured to be positioned over the joint assembly and the first and second busway section housings when the first and second busway sections are coupled by the joint assembly.

6. The busway assembly of claim 5 wherein the joint cover is slidable axially along the first and second busway section housings.

7. The busway assembly of claim 6 wherein the first and second busway section housings comprise channels at the first and second side portions thereof, and wherein the joint cover comprises rail members that are slidably received in the channels.

8. A busway assembly comprising:

a first busway section comprising a first busway section housing comprising first and second opposite side portions;

a second busway section comprising a second busway section housing comprising first and second opposite side portions;

a joint assembly configured to be positioned between and to couple the first and second busway sections, the joint assembly comprising a joint housing; and

a joint cover comprising a joint cover housing configured to be positioned over the joint assembly and the first and second busway section housings when the first and second busway sections are coupled by the joint assembly,

wherein the joint cover is slidable axially along the first and second busway section housings,

wherein the first and second busway section housings comprise channels at the first and second side portions thereof, and

wherein the joint cover comprises rail members that are slidably received in the channels.

9. The busway assembly of claim 8 wherein a projection on the joint housing is configured to be received in a notch defined in one of the first and second busway section housings, and wherein the notch is defined in an upper portion of one of the first and second busway section housings.

10. The busway assembly of claim 9 wherein the projection is on an upper portion of the joint housing.

11. The busway assembly of claim 9 wherein the joint housing comprises first and second joint housings that are configured to be connected to one another, and wherein the projection is on an upper portion of one of the first and second joint housings.

12. A method comprising:

providing a first busway section comprising a first busway section housing having a notch defined at an end of thereof;

providing a joint assembly comprising a joint housing comprising a projection;

joining the first busway section and the joint assembly including receiving the projection in the notch;

providing a second busway section comprising a second busway section housing; and

joining the second busway section and the joint assembly,

wherein the second busway section housing is free of a notch configured to receive the projection.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein:

the projection is on an upper portion of the joint housing; and

the notch is defined in an upper portion of the first busway section housing.

14. The method of claim 12 wherein the joint housing comprises first and second joint housings that are configured to be connected to one another.

15. The method of claim 14 wherein:

the projection is on an upper portion of one of the first and second joint housings; and

the notch is defined in an upper portion of the first busway section housing.

16. The method of claim 12 further comprising sliding a joint cover along the first busway section and/or the second busway section and over the joint assembly such that the joint cover is over the first busway section housing and the second busway section housing.

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising sliding the joint cover over the first busway section before joining the second busway section and the joint assembly.

18. The method of claim 12 wherein:

the projection is on an upper portion of the joint housing; and

the notch is defined in an upper portion of one of the first and second busway section housings.

19. The method of claim 12 wherein the joint housing comprises first and second joint housings that are configured to be connected to one another, and wherein the projection is on an upper portion of one of the first and second joint housings.

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